For science fiction fans, Audible Plus presents an exceptional array of audiobooks that explore futuristic scenarios, alternate realities, and the intricacies of human and technological evolution. This collection includes both seminal classics that have long defined the genre and cutting-edge narratives that push the boundaries of storytelling and creative thought.
Here we’ve curated a selection of the best sci-fi audiobooks on Audible Plus. These stories, rich in speculative wonder and philosophical depth, invite you, the listener, to traverse dystopian landscapes, navigate the intricacies of space colonization, and confront the ethical dilemmas posed by futuristic technologies. So, grab your headphones, and let’s embark on a journey that transcends the boundaries of time and space.
Note: the Audible Plus catalog changes periodically, meaning titles mentioned here may later be unavailable. Although we frequently update this post, some titles may not be part of Audible Plus when you read this.
Hell Divers
By Nicholas Sansbury Smith, narrated by R.C. Bray
Hell Divers is set in a dystopian future where Earth is a toxic wasteland, forcing humanity to live on airships. The story revolves around the Hell Divers, brave souls who dive to the deadly surface to gather resources critical for the survival of those above.
R.C. Bray’s narration brings this bleak yet thrilling world to life, skillfully capturing the essence of each character and elevating the story’s intense atmosphere and emotional layers. This audiobook combines gripping storytelling with exceptional narration, making it a captivating listen for fans of post-apocalyptic audiobooks.
The Downloaded
By Robert J. Sawyer, narrated by a full-cast
The Downloaded by Robert J. Sawyer is a riveting exploration into the future, where in 2059, two diverse groups are cryogenically frozen and their minds uploaded into a quantum computer: astronauts on a one-way interstellar mission and a mix of convicts and volunteers in a virtual reality prison. After a cataclysm leaves them as humanity’s remnants and an asteroid threatens Earth, these groups must unite to find a way off the planet.
Narrated by a full cast including Brendan Fraser and Luke Kirby, this audiobook weaves together hard science fiction with profound ethical questions, offering a compelling narrative on survival, the human spirit, and the future of civilization. As a bonus, this title is available with spatial audio with Dolby Atmos for Audible making it even more immersive.
Red Rising
By Pierce Brown, narrated by Tim Gerard Reynolds
Red Rising is a riveting saga set on a future Mars, where society is divided into a color-coded hierarchy. The story follows Darrow, a Red working in the mines, who discovers that his entire life is based on lies and vows to fight for justice and equality.
Tim Gerard Reynolds’ narration is particularly noteworthy for its intensity and the way he captures Darrow’s evolution from a downtrodden miner to a revolutionary leader. His ability to convey the emotional depth of the characters and the high stakes of their struggle makes Red Rising an unforgettable listening experience.
1984
By George Orwell, narrated by Simon Prebble
1984, a cornerstone of dystopian science fiction literature, presents a harrowing world under the grip of totalitarian rule, where individual freedom is obliterated by surveillance and propaganda.
Simon Prebble’s narration brings Orwell’s chilling vision to life with a gravitas that underscores the novel’s profound themes. Prebble’s ability to convey the nuances of fear, defiance, and the human spirit’s fragility makes this audiobook a powerful experience, ensuring its relevance and impact resonate long after the final words.
The Dispatcher Series
By John Scalzi, narrated by Zachary Quinto
The Dispatcher Series introduces a unique concept where murder is nearly impossible, as victims of violence inexplicably return to life. The series follows Tony Valdez, a Dispatcher who legally performs this role in a society grappling with the moral and practical implications of this new reality.
Narrated by Zachary Quinto, his performance adds a layer of intrigue and depth, perfectly capturing the blend of mystery, ethical dilemmas, and dark humor inherent in Scalzi’s world.
The Joseph Bridgeman Series
By Nick Jones, narrated by Ray Porter
The Joseph Bridgeman Series follows the adventures of Joseph Bridgeman, a man who discovers he can time travel and uses his abilities to solve mysteries and right the wrongs of the past.
Ray Porter’s narration brings depth to the character of Joseph, infusing the story with a mix of vulnerability and determination. This series stands out for its blend of science fiction, mystery, and heartfelt storytelling, making it a captivating listen for those intrigued by time travel and its consequences.
Firefly Series
By James Lovegrove, narrated by James Anderson Foster
The Firefly Series is set in the universe of the beloved TV show Firefly, continuing the adventures of Captain Malcolm Reynolds and his eclectic crew aboard the spaceship Serenity. These stories delve into new challenges and moral dilemmas faced by the crew, expanding on the themes of freedom, loyalty, and survival.
Narrated by James Anderson Foster, his storytelling captures the essence of the original series, from the tension of space battles to the intimate moments between characters. This series appeals to fans of the original show and newcomers alike looking for a compelling blend of science fiction and space western.
Murderbot Diaries
By Martha Wells, narrated by Kevin R. Free
The Murderbot Diaries features a self-aware security android that refers to itself as Murderbot, which prefers watching soap operas to human interaction but finds itself drawn into protecting the humans it’s assigned to.
Narrated by Kevin R. Free, his portrayal of Murderbot is filled with a nuanced understanding of its sarcastic wit and the underlying quest for identity and autonomy. The series stands out for its unique protagonist and engaging narrative voice, making it a refreshing and entertaining listen within the science fiction genre.
Brave New World
By Aldous Huxley, narrated by Michael York
Brave New World is a seminal work of dystopian fiction, imagining a future where society is meticulously engineered for harmony and efficiency at the cost of individuality and freedom. Michael York’s narration brings a new dimension to Huxley’s classic, with a delivery that captures the novel’s ironic tone and the unsettling aspects of its vision.
Its reflection on the delicate balance between societal order and personal freedom makes Brave New World a timeless story that resonates today as much as it did upon its original publication.
Alien: Covenant
By Alan Dean Foster, narrated by Tom Taylorson
Alien: Covenant by Alan Dean Foster is a novelization of the film, expanding on the story of the crew of the colony ship Covenant as they discover what they believe to be an uncharted paradise, only to find a dark and dangerous world.
The audiobook dives deeper into the themes of creation, the nature of humanity, and survival, enriching the Alien universe with new layers of horror and suspense. Narrated by Tom Taylorson, his performance adeptly captures the tension and fear of the crew members as they encounter the Xenomorphs.
In conclusion, each of these selections for the best sci-fi audiobooks on Audible Plus offers a unique journey into the realms of the extraordinary. From the depths of space to the complexities of futuristic societies, these audiobooks not only entertain but also challenge us to think deeply about technology, humanity, and the fabric of our universe.
If you enjoyed this article, you may like to check out our guides to the Best Sci-Fi Audiobooks of All Time and the Best Audiobooks on Audible Plus.
